BMW 530d (E39) restoration

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This restoration was done by RIXCAR, a vehicle workshop located in Riga, Latvia. Our previous projects include such cars as BMW E24 M6, Ford Thunderbird, Studebaker Golden Hawk and many other American and European classics. To see these, take a look at the RIXCAR Facebook page or homepage.

This time around, we are working on something different than our usual old-school classics - a BMW E39 530d that we use for our service needs. Anyway, we think this write-up might be interesting for many readers.

When the Beemer arrives at the workshop it’s looking quite sad, but mechanically the car is rather sound; the engine and running gear have been regularly maintained and are in good condition. The fully-loaded interior and electronic package are all in perfectly working condition as well. For the most part, it is the state of the body that is letting it down. All in all, the car is ready to be brought back to its former glory.

Rust damage is quite severe, the rocker panels and rear fenders have rusted the most. Rest of the body suffers from peeling clearcoat.

Work starts by repairing the damaged body panels, such as the front bumper and preparing the removable parts for painting to get them out of the way early on.

Work on the thoroughly rotten rocker panels and wheel arches has begun. The damaged panels are removed altogether in order to be replaced by panels in superior condition lifted off a non-runner.

New rear fender in its place, primed and sanded.

Body is being prepared for a respray. A coat of color reminiscent to the original will be applied, mixed locally in the paint mixing chamber.

The car sits patiently in the spray booth, waiting for the final session of the whole process to begin.

The pigment has been applied prior to clearcoat.

Forged wheels on for size, 18'' (ET20, J10 at the rear) MK Motorsports MK1s in their original state, but soon to be refurbished and resprayed after a color has been settled on after several experiments to see what would look best.

The wheels have been stripped from paint and are being prepped for a fresh coat for the spokes, the lip is to be brushed.

All done and ready to be mounted on the 5er, along with new tyres, 235/40/R18 for the front, 265/35/R18 for the rear.

And here it is, our BMW 530d, all fresh and quite surely looking much like it would have back in 2001.